Digital Skills Training Project for the ICT and Related Sectors
Project No. 2.3.1.2.i.0/2/23/A/CFLA/001
The European Artificial Intelligence Act (AI Act) has come into force, representing the world’s first comprehensive regulation in the field of artificial intelligence. The AI Act is designed to ensure that artificial intelligence developed and used within the European Union (EU) is trustworthy and includes safeguards to protect fundamental human rights. The regulation aims to establish a harmonized AI internal market in the EU, promoting the adoption of these technologies and creating a favorable environment for innovation and investment. The AI Act introduces a forward-looking definition of artificial intelligence based on product safety and a risk-based approach in the EU.
The AI Act entered into force on 1 August this year and will be fully applicable two years later, with some exceptions: prohibitions will take effect after six months, governance rules and obligations for general-purpose AI models will apply after 12 months, and rules for AI systems will be applied after 36 months. To facilitate the transition to the new legal framework, the European Commission has launched the AI Pact—a voluntary initiative aimed at supporting further implementation—and encourages AI developers both within and outside the EU to comply in a timely manner with the key obligations established by the AI Act.
Source: digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu
What is your experience in the information technology sector?
We have been collaborating with IT companies for over 20 years. Within the framework of European funds, we have also been working closely with the IT association for a long time. I am very pleased and proud that we have the opportunity to work both with members of the IT association and with their partner companies. For any company that wants to operate efficiently, IT—or information technology—is a key issue. By supporting and assisting leaders—companies that provide IT services—they, in turn, can help most Latvian businesses become more efficient and digitally mature.
Why is it important for companies to keep learning continuously?
Since information technology is an integral part of our lives—almost everyone has a smartphone, computer, or tablet—it is crucial to understand how to use these tools to complete work faster, simpler, and more efficiently, while also making daily life more colorful and interesting. Continuous learning and development, both for individuals and companies and their employees, is what helps cope with the constant changes in the world around us.
Which competencies are most important at the management level?
Over time, we have conducted several studies on digital maturity in various Latvian companies and sectors, which highlighted several issues. Some managers, especially senior ones, are accustomed to analog work and understand it very well. A lack of openness to new technological opportunities is one challenge we observed among more conservative leaders. Another challenge is the overwhelming number of digital solutions available. There are thousands, even tens of thousands of possible solutions worldwide, many of them free. The question remains: which tools should a company use and apply in its work? It is important not to get lost in the abundance of options and waste time or resources unnecessarily.
How do information technologies enter companies, and why is it important to master them?
Every Latvian citizen interacts with digital technologies daily—GPS navigation, social networks, online banking, or other smartphone applications. Digitalization and information technologies surround us. If we want to stay competitive personally and in business, we need to adapt, use tools that save time, reach more clients, and communicate more efficiently internally. By doing so, we become more productive and effective. The Mercuri team ensures that every company can achieve this.
What is your vision for the sector’s development in the future?
The question is not whether companies should digitalize, but when and to what extent. My vision is that almost every company will, to some extent, be an IT company, considering how efficiently we automate processes and use digital communication with clients and internally with employees. The goal is to minimize routine work while improving customer service and sales processes.
The European Commission (EC) has awarded the European Innovative Teaching Award for outstanding teaching practices implemented in Erasmus+ projects to a total of 96 projects from across Europe in four categories – early childhood education and care, primary education, general secondary education, and vocational secondary education.
Zane Gailīte, Director of the Erasmus+ Program Department at the State Education Development Agency, stated: “[..] It is important not only to teach and acquire new knowledge but also to foster positive emotions and attitudes towards school and education as a whole. [..].”
Source: https://latvia.representation.ec.europa.eu
LEAN Methodology in Manufacturing and Service Delivery
INSTRUCTORS:Henrijs Kaļķis, Svetlana Kočerova, Oļesja Dorohova
COURSE CONTENT:
LATVIAN INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY ASSOCIATION
Offers a training project:“Digital Skills Training Project for ICT and Related Sectors”Project No. 2.3.1.2.i.0/2/23/A/CFLA/001
The project is implemented until 30 June 2026.Applications for new trainings within the project are open throughout the project duration.
To apply, please send an information request to apmacibas@itnet.lv
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